Hotel Elysee in NYC: Review by Robin Gorman Newman

Built in the 1920’s, the Hotel Elysée, part of The Library Hotel Collection. is named for one of the finest French Restaurants of that era. Once the playground for the rich and famous, Hotel Elysée has been home to movie stars, artists, writers and intellectuals. Luxurious yet intimate, the Hotel Elysée is located on East 54th Street between Park and Madison Avenues.

This hotel is a European style charmer…..and a “keeper” in my travel book.

The staff is hugely accommodating and aims to readily please. I found the bed on the firmer side, which some may love, but my preference is a more cushy slumber. Upon request, the hotel jumped into action to provide not one, but two, feather bed toppers, which did the bedtime trick. We requested a quiet room, and outside noise was never an issue.

our room

In each room, they provide a list of items that may be requested — everything from a fleece blanket to sewing kit to toothbrush, etc., etc. So, you don’t have to worry about forgetting something. Our room, with two doubles beds, was a good size, and elegantly furnished.

Boasting an old worldly air of sophistication, yet a family friendly vibe, the hotel is comfortable whether you are vacationing with children, your partner, or a girlfriend or two — for a restorative moms get away. It has a European sensibility, which I enjoyed, including referring to the elevator as a Lift.

Club Room

The inviting second floor Club Room lounge, open daily til midnight, provides comfort and a socializing opportunity, infused with lively jazz music on Sirius. My 11 year old son, who often got a head start on breakfast before me, met some lovely people in the lounge who engaged him in conversation. They were from all over, including some like us who opted for a staycation, taking advantage of all that the Big Apple has to offer.

The location is super convenient — a stones throw from Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue stores, the Bloomingdale’s shopping area, etc. But, frankly, Hotel Elysee was so comfortable, that we spent a good chunk of time chilling in the lounge…me — catching up on reading and tea drinking…..him – playing on his computer. It’s a great refuge on blustery winter days, and the perfect place to wind down after a day of Manhattan adventures.

Seth in the lobby.

Connected to the hotel is Monkey Bar….a lively, upscale restaurant/bar destination, though we didn’t eat there. There are several restaurants right across the street and just a bit further East is a Hale and Hearty — if you want something quick — soup, salads, etc.

The hotel features the following…

The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, etc. are made available each morning

Pepperidge Farm cookies, fresh fruit, an array of tea and coffee available throughout the day

Evening reception including Prosecco, fine wines, imported and domestic cheeses, olives and other munchies offered daily from 5 to 8pm

Wireless High Speed Internet access throughout the hotel, with a computer for guest use in the Library on the second floor

Daily passes to the nearby New York Sports Club

Complimentary library of books, and DVD’s to enjoy during your stay

Other hotels that are part of the chain in NYC are Hotel Giraffe, Casablanca Hotel and Library Hotel — each with its own unique vibe, but similar offerings in terms of hospitality.

The chain also has properties outside NY — Hotel Toronto, Aria Hotel Prague, and the just opened Aria Hotel Budapest. Aria Hotel Budapest is in the heart of city centre, and draws upon the influence of the sounds of jazz, opera, classical and contemporary music, for it atmosphere, married with the grandeur of a historic Hungarian palace. I welcome the opportunity to visit there on a future trip.